Springfield, Illinois – On March 14, 2023, HRJ5, a resolution to designate a portion of Alpine Road as the “CPL Nathan E. Carlson Memorial Highway,” passed out of the Transportation: Regulations, Roads & Bridges Committee Hearing. Rep. John Cabello (R – Machesney Park), is deeply humbled and honored to sponsor this resolution.
“I knew Corporal Carlson since he was just 2 years old, and the impact that he had on my life will be long-lasting,” said Rep. Cabello. “I am so happy his legacy will be set in stone and that community members and highway travelers alike will have the chance to remember Corporal Nathan E. Carlson as a public servant who served his community and country with pure class and respect.”
Corporal Carlson was born in Rockford, graduated from Harlem High School in 2019, and went on to serve as a U.S. Marine Corps Combat Aviator. He was killed in the line of duty during a military training exercise in June 2022 and is survived by his beloved wife, parents, sisters, and many close family and friends.
The “CPL Nathan E. Carlson Memorial Highway” will be a lasting tribute to the memory of Corporal Carlson and serve as a reminder of the sacrifices he made for his country. The Illinois Department of Transportation will ensure that the memorial highway is erected at suitable locations and that appropriate plaques and signs are in place to give proper notice of Corporal Carlson’s name.
Rep. Cabello expresses his gratitude to the members of the Transportation: Regulations, Roads & Bridges Committee for their support of this resolution and their recognition of the sacrifices made by Corporal Carlson. Suitable copies of this resolution will be presented to the family of Corporal Carlson, the Secretary of Transportation, the Principle of Harlem High School, the Village President of Machesney Park, and the Mayor of Loves Park.
The “CPL Nathan E. Carlson Memorial Highway” will serve as a lasting tribute to the memory of Corporal Carlson and will ensure that his sacrifice and contributions are never forgotten. Rep. Cabello is proud to have sponsored this resolution and is committed to honoring the memory of Corporal Carlson and all of our nation’s fallen heroes.
John M. Cabello is the Assistant Minority Leader and State Representative for Illinois’ 90th House District which includes the following communities in Winnebago, Stephenson, and Boone counties: Rockford; Machesney Park; Freeport; Roscoe; Loves Park; Rockton; South Beloit; Caledonia; Durand; Rock City; and Rockton.